So close: 49ers fall 34-31 in Super Bowl thriller

49ers Frank Gore leaves the field after the loss, as the San Francisco 49ers fall to the Baltimore Ravens 34-31 in Superbowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, La. on Sunday Feb. 3, 2013.

49ers Frank Gore leaves the field after the loss, as the San Francisco 49ers fall to the Baltimore Ravens 34-31 in Superbowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, La. on Sunday Feb. 3, 2013.

Photo: Michael Macor / The Chronicle

Image 2 of 79

Colin Kaepernick ran for a touchdown in the fourth quarter. The Baltimore Ravens defeated the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XLVVII 34-31 Sunday February 3, 2013.

Colin Kaepernick ran for a touchdown in the fourth quarter. The Baltimore Ravens defeated the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XLVVII 34-31 Sunday February 3, 2013.

Photo: Brant Ward / The Chronicle

Image 3 of 79

Ray Lewis walked through the confetti at the end of the game. The Baltimore Ravens defeated the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XLVVII 34-31 Sunday February 3, 2013.

Ray Lewis walked through the confetti at the end of the game. The Baltimore Ravens defeated the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XLVVII 34-31 Sunday February 3, 2013.

Photo: Brant Ward / The Chronicle

Image 4 of 79

49ers coach Jim Harbaugh yelled at officials for a holding call on the missed catch by Michael Crabtree in the endzone in the fourth quarter. The Baltimore Ravens defeated the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XLVVII 34-31 Sunday February 3, 2013. less

49ers coach Jim Harbaugh yelled at officials for a holding call on the missed catch by Michael Crabtree in the endzone in the fourth quarter. The Baltimore Ravens defeated the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl ... more

Photo: Brant Ward / The Chronicle

Image 5 of 79

During the lights out stage of the game, with the 49ers down by two touchdowns, Mike Iupati (right), center Jonathan Goodwin and Anthony Davis (76) sat on the bench. The Baltimore Ravens defeated the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XLVVII 34-31 Sunday February 3, 2013. less

During the lights out stage of the game, with the 49ers down by two touchdowns, Mike Iupati (right), center Jonathan Goodwin and Anthony Davis (76) sat on the bench. The Baltimore Ravens defeated the San ... more

Photo: Brant Ward / The Chronicle

Image 6 of 79

Ravens Paul Kruger and Danell Ellerbe celebrate as the 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick watches his pass to teammate Michael Crabtree falls incomplete on their last play of the game for San Francisco, as the San Francisco 49ers fall to the Baltimore Ravens 34-31 in Superbowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome in New Orleans, La. on Sunday Feb. 3, 2013. less

Ravens Paul Kruger and Danell Ellerbe celebrate as the 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick watches his pass to teammate Michael Crabtree falls incomplete on their last play of the game for San Francisco, as the ... more

Photo: Michael Macor / The Chronicle

Image 7 of 79

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick scores on a 15-yard touchdown run during the fourth quarter of Super Bowl XLVII against the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans. less

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick scores on a 15-yard touchdown run during the fourth quarter of Super Bowl XLVII against the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday, Feb. 3, ... more

Photo: Smiley N. Pool / Chronicle

Image 8 of 79

San Francisco 49ers tight end Vernon Davis has a pass go off his fingers as Baltimore Ravens cornerback Corey Graham defends during the fourth quarter of Super Bowl XLVII against the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans. less

San Francisco 49ers tight end Vernon Davis has a pass go off his fingers as Baltimore Ravens cornerback Corey Graham defends during the fourth quarter of Super Bowl XLVII against the Baltimore Ravens at the ... more

Photo: Smiley N. Pool / Chronicle

Image 9 of 79

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (5) slips away from San Francisco 49ers outside linebacker Aldon Smith (99) during the second half of Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans. less

San Francisco 49ers fans celebrate a 15-yard touchdown run by quarterback Colin Kaepernick during the fourth quarter of Super Bowl XLVII against the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans. less

San Francisco 49ers fans celebrate a 15-yard touchdown run by quarterback Colin Kaepernick during the fourth quarter of Super Bowl XLVII against the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday, ... more

Photo: Smiley N. Pool / Chronicle

Image 11 of 79

Baltimore Ravens tight end Dennis Pitta (88) celebrates with center Matt Birk (77) after scoring on a 1-yard touchdown pass during the second quarter of Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans. less

Baltimore Ravens tight end Dennis Pitta (88) celebrates with center Matt Birk (77) after scoring on a 1-yard touchdown pass during the second quarter of Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on ... more

Photo: Smiley N. Pool / Chronicle

Image 12 of 79

Officials reach in to separate San Francisco 49ers tackle Joe Staley (74) from Baltimore Ravens defensive end Arthur Jones (97) as they scuffle during the first half of Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans. less

Officials reach in to separate San Francisco 49ers tackle Joe Staley (74) from Baltimore Ravens defensive end Arthur Jones (97) as they scuffle during the first half of Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz ... more

Photo: Smiley N. Pool / Chronicle

Image 13 of 79

On the second to last possession Colin Kaepernick was unable to connect with Michael Crabtree. The Baltimore Ravens defeated the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XLVVII 34-31 Sunday February 3, 2013.

On the second to last possession Colin Kaepernick was unable to connect with Michael Crabtree. The Baltimore Ravens defeated the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XLVVII 34-31 Sunday February 3, 2013.

Photo: Brant Ward / The Chronicle

Image 14 of 79

San Francisco 49ers' Larry Grant, left, Ray McDonald, right, and Anthony Davis, rear right, walk off the field after the team's 34-31 loss to the Baltimore Ravens in the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans. less

San Francisco 49ers' Larry Grant, left, Ray McDonald, right, and Anthony Davis, rear right, walk off the field after the team's 34-31 loss to the Baltimore Ravens in the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game ... more

Photo: Mark Humphrey / Associated Press

Image 15 of 79

Head coach John Harbaugh of the Baltimore Ravens shakes hands with his brother head coach Jim Harbaugh of the San Francisco 49ers after winning Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, Louisiana. The Ravens defeated the 49ers 34-31. less

Head coach John Harbaugh of the Baltimore Ravens shakes hands with his brother head coach Jim Harbaugh of the San Francisco 49ers after winning Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on February 3, ... more

Photo: Ezra Shaw / Getty Images

Image 16 of 79

Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers walks off the field after losing against the Baltimore Ravens in Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers walks off the field after losing against the Baltimore Ravens in Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Photo: Christian Petersen / Getty Images

Image 17 of 79

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: Perrish Cox #20 of the San Francisco 49ers kneels down among the confetti following their loss to the Baltimore Ravens during Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, Louisiana. The Ravens defeated the 49ers 34-31. less

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: Perrish Cox #20 of the San Francisco 49ers kneels down among the confetti following their loss to the Baltimore Ravens during Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on ... more

San Francisco 49ers head coach Jim Harbaugh protests a non-call by the officials after a fourth down play during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Gene Puskar) less

San Francisco 49ers head coach Jim Harbaugh protests a non-call by the officials after a fourth down play during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, ... more

Photo: Associated Press

Image 20 of 79

Half of the stadium goes dark as the lights go out on the San Francisco 49ers and Baltimore Ravens during the third quarter of Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans. less

Half of the stadium goes dark as the lights go out on the San Francisco 49ers and Baltimore Ravens during the third quarter of Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New ... more

Photo: Smiley N. Pool / Chronicle

Image 21 of 79

Half the lights are out in the Superdome during a power outage in the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game between the San Francisco 49ers and Baltimore Ravens on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans. less

Half the lights are out in the Superdome during a power outage in the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game between the San Francisco 49ers and Baltimore Ravens on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New ... more

Photo: Marcio Sanchez / Associated Press

Image 22 of 79

Running back Ray Rice (27) is tackled during the second half of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, La. less

Running back Ray Rice (27) is tackled during the second half of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013 in New ... more

Photo: Carlos Avila Gonzalez / The Chronicle

Image 23 of 79

Brian and Amanda Evans of Salinas, Calif., watch as Ravens fans celebrate after the Ravens defeated the 49ers 34-31 in the Super Bowl. The San Francisco 49ers played the Baltimore Ravens in Super Bowl XLVII, on Sunday, February 3, 2013, in New Orleans, La. less

Brian and Amanda Evans of Salinas, Calif., watch as Ravens fans celebrate after the Ravens defeated the 49ers 34-31 in the Super Bowl. The San Francisco 49ers played the Baltimore Ravens in Super Bowl XLVII, ... more

Photo: Carlos Avila Gonzalez / The Chronicle

Image 24 of 79

San Francisco 49ers linebacker Aldon Smith (99) kneels on the field during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans.

San Francisco 49ers linebacker Aldon Smith (99) kneels on the field during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans.

Photo: Mark Humphrey / Associated Press

Image 25 of 79

San Francisco 49ers running back Frank Gore (21) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Baltimore Ravens during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Julio Cortez) less

San Francisco 49ers running back Frank Gore (21) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Baltimore Ravens during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New ... more

Photo: Julio Cortez / Associated Press

Image 26 of 79

On the second to last possession Colin Kaepernick was unable to connect with Michael Crabtree. The Baltimore Ravens defeated the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XLVVII 34-31 Sunday February 3, 2013.

On the second to last possession Colin Kaepernick was unable to connect with Michael Crabtree. The Baltimore Ravens defeated the San Francisco 49ers in Super Bowl XLVVII 34-31 Sunday February 3, 2013.

Photo: Brant Ward / The Chronicle

Image 27 of 79

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) celebrates after scoring on a 15-yard touchdown run during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip) less

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) celebrates after scoring on a 15-yard touchdown run during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, ... more

Photo: Associated Press

Image 28 of 79

Image 29 of 79

Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis (52) reacts after the defense stopped the San Francisco 49ers on fourth-and-goal during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game, Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans. The Ravens won 34-31. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey) less

Baltimore Ravens linebacker Ray Lewis (52) reacts after the defense stopped the San Francisco 49ers on fourth-and-goal during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game, Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in ... more

Photo: Associated Press

Image 30 of 79

San Francisco 49ers Running back Frank Gore (21) celebrates with Quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) after running in a touchdown in the third quarter of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, La. less

San Francisco 49ers Running back Frank Gore (21) celebrates with Quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) after running in a touchdown in the third quarter of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the ... more

Photo: Michael Macor / The Chronicle

Image 31 of 79

San Francisco 49ers Running back Frank Gore (21) celebrates after running in a touchdown in the third quarter of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, La. less

San Francisco 49ers Running back Frank Gore (21) celebrates after running in a touchdown in the third quarter of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz ... more

Photo: Michael Macor / The Chronicle

Image 32 of 79

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Michael Crabtree (15) scores on a 31-yard touchdown reception against the Baltimore Ravens during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game, Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Bill Haber) less

San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Michael Crabtree (15) scores on a 31-yard touchdown reception against the Baltimore Ravens during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game, Sunday, Feb. 3, ... more

Photo: Associated Press

Image 33 of 79

Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice (27) during the first half of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, La. less

Baltimore Ravens running back Ray Rice (27) during the first half of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013 in New ... more

Photo: Carlos Avila Gonzalez / The Chronicle

Image 34 of 79

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: Michael Crabtree #15 of the San Francisco 49ers runs into the endzone on a 31-yard touchdown reception in the third quarter against Bernard Pollard #31 of the Baltimore Ravens during Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, Louisiana. less

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: Michael Crabtree #15 of the San Francisco 49ers runs into the endzone on a 31-yard touchdown reception in the third quarter against Bernard Pollard #31 of the Baltimore Ravens ... more

Photo: Robb Carr / Getty Images

Image 35 of 79

Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, La.

Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, La.

Photo: Carlos Avila Gonzalez / The Chronicle

Image 36 of 79

Quarterback Alex Smith (11) on the sidelines during the first half of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, La. less

Quarterback Alex Smith (11) on the sidelines during the first half of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013 in New ... more

Photo: Carlos Avila Gonzalez / The Chronicle

Image 37 of 79

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: (L-R) Frank Gore #21 and Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrate after Gore scored a 6-yard rushing touchdown in the third quarter against the Baltimore Ravens during Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, Louisiana. less

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: (L-R) Frank Gore #21 and Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers celebrate after Gore scored a 6-yard rushing touchdown in the third quarter against the Baltimore Ravens ... more

Photo: Win McNamee / Getty Images

Image 38 of 79

Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers looks up during a power outage that occurred in the third quarter that caused a 34-minute delay during Super Bowl XLVII against the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, Louisiana. less

Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers looks up during a power outage that occurred in the third quarter that caused a 34-minute delay during Super Bowl XLVII against the Baltimore Ravens at the ... more

Photo: Mike Ehrmann / Getty Images

Image 39 of 79

San Francisco 49ers offensive lineman Daniel Kilgore (67) waits on the bench during a power outage during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans.

San Francisco 49ers offensive lineman Daniel Kilgore (67) waits on the bench during a power outage during the second half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans.

Photo: Darron Cummings / Associated Press

Image 40 of 79

San Francisco 49ers tight end Vernon Davis (85) looks around a dark stadium after the lights went out during the second half of NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans.

San Francisco 49ers tight end Vernon Davis (85) looks around a dark stadium after the lights went out during the second half of NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans.

Photo: Matt Slocum / Associated Press

Image 41 of 79

Quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) breaks away for a run in the first half of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, La. less

Quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) breaks away for a run in the first half of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013 in ... more

Photo: Michael Macor / The Chronicle

Image 42 of 79

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: (L-R) Bruce Miller #49 of the San Francisco 49ers and Cary Williams #29 of the Baltimore Ravens exchange words in the first half during Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) less

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: (L-R) Bruce Miller #49 of the San Francisco 49ers and Cary Williams #29 of the Baltimore Ravens exchange words in the first half during Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz ... more

Photo: Getty Images

Image 43 of 79

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: Joe Flacco #5 of the Baltimore Ravens attempts to escape the pressure from Ahmad Brooks #55 of the San Francisco 49ers in the fsecond quarter during Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, Louisiana. less

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: Joe Flacco #5 of the Baltimore Ravens attempts to escape the pressure from Ahmad Brooks #55 of the San Francisco 49ers in the fsecond quarter during Super Bowl XLVII at the ... more

Photo: Robb Carr / Getty Images

Image 44 of 79

Wide receiver Michael Crabtree (15) catches a pass downfield in the first quarter of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, La. less

Wide receiver Michael Crabtree (15) catches a pass downfield in the first quarter of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February ... more

Photo: Carlos Avila Gonzalez / The Chronicle

Image 45 of 79

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Jacoby Jones (12) catches a long pass through the attempted tackle of tight end Delanie Walker (46) in the first half of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, La. less

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Jacoby Jones (12) catches a long pass through the attempted tackle of tight end Delanie Walker (46) in the first half of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the ... more

Photo: Michael Macor / The Chronicle

Image 46 of 79

Isaiah Grant, 4, son of Niners Larry Grant, watches during the first quarter of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013, New Orleans, La. less

Isaiah Grant, 4, son of Niners Larry Grant, watches during the first quarter of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, ... more

Photo: The Chronicle

Image 47 of 79

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: Michael Crabtree #15 of the San Francisco 49ers makes a catch in the first quarter against Ray Lewis #52 of the Baltimore Ravens during Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, Louisiana. less

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: Michael Crabtree #15 of the San Francisco 49ers makes a catch in the first quarter against Ray Lewis #52 of the Baltimore Ravens during Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz ... more

Photo: Dilip Vishwanat / Getty Images

Image 48 of 79

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: Donte Whitner #31 of the San Francisco 49ers commits a face mask penalty in the second quarter against Ed Dickson #84 of the Baltimore Ravens during Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, Louisiana. less

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: Donte Whitner #31 of the San Francisco 49ers commits a face mask penalty in the second quarter against Ed Dickson #84 of the Baltimore Ravens during Super Bowl XLVII at the ... more

Photo: Harry How / Getty Images

Image 49 of 79

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: (L-R) Ray Lewis #52 of the Baltimore Ravens and Vernon Davis #85 of the San Francisco 49ers exchange words after Davis made a reception in the second quarter during Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, Louisiana. less

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: (L-R) Ray Lewis #52 of the Baltimore Ravens and Vernon Davis #85 of the San Francisco 49ers exchange words after Davis made a reception in the second quarter during Super Bowl ... more

Photo: Harry How / Getty Images

Image 50 of 79

Students from the Sandy Hook Elementary School Choir sing America the Beautiful with Jennifer Hudson during the pre game show of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, La. less

Students from the Sandy Hook Elementary School Choir sing America the Beautiful with Jennifer Hudson during the pre game show of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the ... more

Photo: Carlos Avila Gonzalez / The Chronicle

Image 51 of 79

Baltimore Ravens wide receiver Anquan Boldin (81) celebrates after scoring on a 13-yard touchdown pass from Joe Flacco past San Francisco 49ers strong safety Donte Whitner (31) during the first quarter of Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans. less

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (5) is sacked by San Francisco 49ers defensive end Ray McDonald (91) as tackle Michael Oher (74) tries to help during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel) less

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (5) is sacked by San Francisco 49ers defensive end Ray McDonald (91) as tackle Michael Oher (74) tries to help during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football ... more

Photo: Associated Press

Image 53 of 79

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (5) gets sacked by San Francisco 49ers defensive end Ray McDonald (91) as linebacker Aldon Smith (99) helps during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Elise Amendola) less

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (5) gets sacked by San Francisco 49ers defensive end Ray McDonald (91) as linebacker Aldon Smith (99) helps during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football ... more

Photo: Associated Press

Image 54 of 79

Linebacker Tavares Gooden (56) stretches with Linebacker Michael Wilhoite (57) and Defensive tackle Ricky Jean Francois (95) before Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, La. less

Linebacker Tavares Gooden (56) stretches with Linebacker Michael Wilhoite (57) and Defensive tackle Ricky Jean Francois (95) before Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at ... more

Photo: Carlos Avila Gonzalez / The Chronicle

Image 55 of 79

San Francisco 49ers Quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) talks with running back Frank Gore (21) before a play during the first quarter of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, La. less

San Francisco 49ers Quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) talks with running back Frank Gore (21) before a play during the first quarter of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens ... more

Photo: Carlos Avila Gonzalez / The Chronicle

Image 56 of 79

San Francisco 49ers head coach Jim Harbaugh during the first quarter of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, La. less

San Francisco 49ers head coach Jim Harbaugh during the first quarter of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013 in New ... more

Photo: Carlos Avila Gonzalez / The Chronicle

Image 57 of 79

Quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) hands off to Running back Frank Gore (21) during the first quarter of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, La. less

Quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) hands off to Running back Frank Gore (21) during the first quarter of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on ... more

Photo: Carlos Avila Gonzalez / The Chronicle

Image 58 of 79

wide receiver Anquan Boldin (81) celebrates after scoring the first touchdown of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, La. less

wide receiver Anquan Boldin (81) celebrates after scoring the first touchdown of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, ... more

Photo: Carlos Avila Gonzalez / The Chronicle

Image 59 of 79

Wide receiver Anquan Boldin (81) celebrates with his teammates following a touchdown catch in the first quarter of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, La. less

Wide receiver Anquan Boldin (81) celebrates with his teammates following a touchdown catch in the first quarter of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz ... more

Photo: Carlos Avila Gonzalez / The Chronicle

Image 60 of 79

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: Vernon Davis #85 of the San Francisco 49ers makes a reception in the second quarter against Bernard Pollard #31, Ray Lewis #52 and Jimmy Smith #22 of the Baltimore Ravens during Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images) less

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: Vernon Davis #85 of the San Francisco 49ers makes a reception in the second quarter against Bernard Pollard #31, Ray Lewis #52 and Jimmy Smith #22 of the Baltimore Ravens during ... more

Photo: Getty Images

Image 61 of 79

Nanny Shelly Buller holds sleeping Hudson Smith, 20 months, son of Niners Alex Smith during first quarter at Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013, New Orleans, La. less

Nanny Shelly Buller holds sleeping Hudson Smith, 20 months, son of Niners Alex Smith during first quarter at Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz ... more

Photo: The Chronicle

Image 62 of 79

Yoland Mejia, of San Jose, Calif. shows signs of dismay after the Ravans control the game early on at Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013, New Orleans, La. less

Yoland Mejia, of San Jose, Calif. shows signs of dismay after the Ravans control the game early on at Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on ... more

Photo: The Chronicle

Image 63 of 79

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (5) throughs through an attempted block in the first half of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, La. less

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (5) throughs through an attempted block in the first half of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on ... more

Photo: Michael Macor / The Chronicle

Image 64 of 79

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (5) throughs through an attempted block in the first half of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, La. less

Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (5) throughs through an attempted block in the first half of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on ... more

Photo: Michael Macor / The Chronicle

Image 65 of 79

Before kickoff, Ana Ruiz and Ismael Garcia make their way to their seats for Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013, New Orleans, La. less

Before kickoff, Ana Ruiz and Ismael Garcia make their way to their seats for Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013, ... more

Photo: The Chronicle

Image 66 of 79

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) calls a timeout during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) less

San Francisco 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick (7) calls a timeout during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans. (AP ... more

Photo: Associated Press

Image 67 of 79

Linebacker Aldon Smith (99) sacks Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (5) during the first half of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, La. less

Linebacker Aldon Smith (99) sacks Baltimore Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco (5) during the first half of Superbowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on ... more

Photo: The Chronicle

Image 68 of 79

The San Francisco 49ers huddle around inside linebacker Patrick Willis (52), facing at top left, before Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans.

The San Francisco 49ers huddle around inside linebacker Patrick Willis (52), facing at top left, before Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans.

Photo: Smiley N. Pool / Chronicle

Image 69 of 79

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: Head coach Jim Harbaugh of the San Francisco 49ers waits to take the field with his team prior to Super Bowl XLVII against the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Ezra Shaw/Getty Images) less

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: Head coach Jim Harbaugh of the San Francisco 49ers waits to take the field with his team prior to Super Bowl XLVII against the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on ... more

Photo: Getty Images

Image 70 of 79

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: Joe Flacco #5 of the Baltimore Ravens celebrates after throwing a touchdown pass in the first quarter against the San Francisco 49ers during Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Chris Graythen/Getty Images) less

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: Joe Flacco #5 of the Baltimore Ravens celebrates after throwing a touchdown pass in the first quarter against the San Francisco 49ers during Super Bowl XLVII at the ... more

Photo: Getty Images

Image 71 of 79

San Francisco 49ers running back Frank Gore (21) runs across a Super Bowl XLVII logo at the teams warm up before the game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans.

San Francisco 49ers running back Frank Gore (21) runs across a Super Bowl XLVII logo at the teams warm up before the game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans.

Photo: Smiley N. Pool / Chronicle

Image 72 of 79

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers looks to pass in the first quarter against the Baltimore Ravens during Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images) less

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: Colin Kaepernick #7 of the San Francisco 49ers looks to pass in the first quarter against the Baltimore Ravens during Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on February ... more

Photo: Getty Images

Image 73 of 79

San Francisco 49ers tight end Vernon Davis (85) is tackled by Baltimore Ravens safety Ed Reed (20) during the first half of NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game, Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Charlie Riedel) less

San Francisco 49ers tight end Vernon Davis (85) is tackled by Baltimore Ravens safety Ed Reed (20) during the first half of NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game, Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans. (AP ... more

Photo: Associated Press

Image 74 of 79

Players line up on the field during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Tim Donnelly) less

Players line up on the field during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Tim ... more

Photo: Associated Press

Image 75 of 79

San Francisco 49ers head coach Jim Harbaugh, right, argues with referee Jerome Boger during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Bill Haber) less

San Francisco 49ers head coach Jim Harbaugh, right, argues with referee Jerome Boger during the first half of the NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game against the Baltimore Ravens, Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New ... more

Photo: Associated Press

Image 76 of 79

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: San Francisco 49ers mascot Sourdough Sam waves a flag on the field as players take the field against the Baltimore Ravens during Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, Louisiana. (Photo by Win McNamee/Getty Images) less

NEW ORLEANS, LA - FEBRUARY 03: San Francisco 49ers mascot Sourdough Sam waves a flag on the field as players take the field against the Baltimore Ravens during Super Bowl XLVII at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome ... more

Photo: Getty Images

Image 77 of 79

Members of the Sandy Hook Elementary School Chorus sing "America The Beautiful" before Super Bowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on February 3, 2013 in New Orleans, Louisiana. AFP PHOTO / TIMOTHY A. CLARYTIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP/Getty Images less

Members of the Sandy Hook Elementary School Chorus sing "America The Beautiful" before Super Bowl XLVII between the San Francisco 49ers and the Baltimore Ravens at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome on February 3, ... more

Photo: AFP/Getty Images

Image 78 of 79

San Francisco 49ers defensive end Tony Jerod-Eddie (63) takes the field before NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game against the Baltimore Ravens Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)

San Francisco 49ers defensive end Tony Jerod-Eddie (63) takes the field before NFL Super Bowl XLVII football game against the Baltimore Ravens Sunday, Feb. 3, 2013, in New Orleans. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)

Photo: Associated Press

Image 79 of 79

So close: 49ers fall 34-31 in Super Bowl thriller

1 / 79

Back to Gallery

New Orleans — – The franchise known for both peerless quarterback play and wild success in its Super Bowls relied on the right arm of its latest hotshot behind center Sunday to continue its run of perfection in the NFL’s biggest game.

This time, however, the familiar script was finally shredded.

With less than two minutes left and 5 yards separating the 49ers from their sixth Super Bowl title in six attempts, quarterback Colin Kaepernick threw three straight incompletions, and a furious comeback fell short in a 34-31 loss to the Ravens in Super Bowl XLVII at the Louisiana Superdome.

On 4th-and-goal, Kaepernick floated a pass into the right corner of the end zone to Michael Crabtree, but it landed beyond the wideout’s reach. On the sideline, head coach Jim Harbaugh fired his baseball cap to the turf in disgust and pleaded for a holding a call on Ravens cornerback Jimmy Smith.

After the game, Harbaugh met briefly on the field with his brother, Ravens head coach John Harbaugh, and they exchanged a handshake and a few brief words. In the locker room, Jim Harbaugh had a similarly brief message for a dejected team that had come tantalizingly close to rallying from a 22-point deficit early in the third quarter.

“He didn’t really say anything,” right guard Alex Boone said. “Really, all he said was that it really sucks to lose.”

The 49ers ripped off four straight scoring drives against a reeling Ravens defense and appeared poised to cap their comeback after Frank Gore’s 33-yard run set them up with 1st-and-goal at Baltimore’s 7-yard line with 2:39 remaining.

A 2-yard run by LaMichael James leading up to the two-minute warning set the dramatic stage three chances to gain 5 yards.

The 49ers elected not to run the read-option with Kaepernick, who averaged 8.9 yards on seven carries and had scored on a 15-yard run in the fourth quarter. They also didn’t hand the ball to Gore (19 carries, 110 yards), who had led a ground game that had gashed the Ravens for 129 yards and averaged 9.2 yards a carry in the second half.

The Ravens were without All-Pro nose tackle Haloti Ngata, who sustained an ankle injury in the third quarter and watched the final plays from the locker room. Ngata and Ravens defensive coordinator Dean Pees said they expected the 49ers to run the ball. And they weren’t alone.

“All I could think of was running a different play, but that’s just a player’s mentality,” tight end Vernon Davis said. Offensive coordinator “Greg Roman, he calls the shots; we have to go with it. We have to respect what is called.”

Safety Donte Whitner said he was “a little surprised, but it’s Coach’s call. I guess they wanted to get the ball to Crabtree. … If it works, you’re a genius, and if it doesn’t, you messed it up.”

The 49ers’ bid to post the biggest comeback in Super Bowl history was launched after one of the more bizarre moments the NFL’s biggest game has witnessed.

With 13:28 left in the third quarter, the power went out in the Superdome, causing a 34-minute delay. When the lights returned, San Francisco, which was trailing 28-6, had its power restored.

Ten minutes after play resumed, San Francisco had scored 17 points, outgained Baltimore 103-20 and shaved the deficit to 28-23.

“Guys just made plays,” cornerback Carlos Rogers said. “Made plays on defense to get off the field, offense got some momentum and kept moving the ball and scoring points.”

Said John Harbaugh: “Both teams had to deal with it. Actually, I thought they dealt with it better, obviously. They were able to turn the momentum of the game.”

The rally began when Kaepernick fired a 31-yard touchdown pass to Crabtree, who caught the ball at Baltimore’s 15, bounced off two would-be tacklers and strolled into the end zone.

After the Ravens went three-and-out, Ted Ginn Jr. set up a two-play, 20-yard touchdown drive with a 32-yard punt return. Less than a minute later, Gore received a crushing block from tight end Delanie Walker on safety Ed Reed and ran untouched for a 6-yard score.

Two plays later, Baltimore’s implosion continued. Ray Rice fumbled after catching a short pass in the left flat, and the 49ers took possession at the Ravens’ 24 when cornerback Tarell Brown fell on the loose ball. The takeaway turned into a 34-yard field goal by David Akers.

The wobbly Ravens steadied themselves for a 71-yard field-goal drive to lead 31-23, but the 49ers roared right back. Their fourth straight scoring drive was a five-play, 76-yard march capped by Kaepernick’s 15-yard run. Kaepernick’s subsequent two-point conversion pass was incomplete, and San Francisco trailed 31-29.

A Ravens field goal bumped their lead to 34-29 and set the stage for San Francisco’s final drive, which began at its 20-yard line with 4:19 left.

After the march ended with three straight incompletions, the Ravens celebrated under falling confetti while the 49ers trudged to the locker room to begin an agonizing offseason. They finished with 468 yards of offense, the most ever by a Super Bowl loser.

“We stayed in the locker room for maybe 10 minutes with everybody with their pads, trying to understand what we could have done better as individuals,” Walker said. “We got down to the 5-yard line and couldn’t win a game.”